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Nov. 8, 2006

Cedar Falls, Iowa - The University of Northern Iowa volleyball team has signed two players to national letters of intent, UNI head coach Bobbi Petersen announced today. Inking to play with the Panthers starting in 2007 are middle blocker Michelle Burow (Lincoln, Neb./Norris High School) and defensive specialist Chelsea Saunders (Highland, Texas/Edward S. Marcus High School).

"We are extremely excited about the two student-athletes that we are signing," Petersen said. "Chelsea and Michelle are both incredible athletes and have a high commitment to academics. Both have had successful high school seasons and are involved in high level club programs, giving them invaluable experience. We are thrilled to have each of them and their families become part of the UNI volleyball family."

Michelle Burow
Chelsea Saunders

The 6-1 Burow is a two-time first team all-conference pick. She earned honorable mention all-state honors as a sophomore and was a second-team all-state pick as a junior. For her senior season of 2006, she averaged 4.6 kills and 3.3 digs per game, with an attack percentage of .384. Burow is also an outstanding student, earning academic all-conference honors, and is a member of the Nebraska Juniors volleyball club out of Lincoln, Neb.

"Michelle is a very athletic middle," Petersen said. "Her strengths are definitely her speed and quickness. She moves easily along the net and in transition which allows her to close the block and be a fast tempo option on offense. She also is a good jumper and has good vision as an attacker. We also feel Michelle will be someone that could play all the way around for us, as she has strong back court skills as well."

The 5-11 Saunders was named the Texas 6-5A defensive player of the year this season, averaging 4.5 digs per game. The Marauders finished as 2006 district champion and were area runner-up. A three-year letterwinner, Saunders was also named Texas Advantage volleyball club's best all-around player in both 2005 and 2006. Texas Advantage finished 11th in the USA junior volleyball championships last year. Saunders becomes UNI's first-ever volleyball signee from the state of Texas.

"Chelsea comes from one of the top volleyball clubs in the country," Petersen said. "She is a well rounded player, hitting for her high school team and playing libero for her club team. We are excited about her abilities on defense and serve receive and know she will be an awesome addition to our back court. Chelsea reads well on defense and can make high level moves when defending. She seems to understand her platform which will be a great asset for her. She works very hard and loves to compete."